Getting Into an Accident With a USPS Mail Truck

Getting Into an Accident With a USPS Mail Truck

The United States Postal Service (USPS) has a fleet of approximately 235,000 trucks. With so many USPS mail delivery trucks on the road, collisions have become inevitable. You may be wondering: What are my rights after a crash with a USPS truck? At SAM LAW OFFICE LLC, our Illinois truck accident lawyers always put the rights and interests of victims first. Here, you will find an overview of the most important things to know about your rights and options if you were involved in a crash with a USPS mail truck. 

USPS Mail Truck Accident Claims are Different (Federal Tort Claims Act)

USPS mail truck accident claims differ from typical motor vehicle accident claims in Illinois. These crashes fall under a law called the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). Under FTCA, the United States government takes responsibility for the actions of federal employees, including USPS drivers. Victims must follow a unique administrative process, including presenting their claims to the appropriate federal agency before filing a lawsuit. Specialized deadlines and procedures apply, 

What to Know About Filing a Claim Under the FTCA

If you were involved in a collision with a USPS mail truck, it is crucial that you understand how the FTCA claims process works. Here are some of the key things to know about filing a claim: 

• Notice of Claim: You must submit a written notice of your claim (Form SF-95) to the appropriate federal agency within two years of the incident. This notice should include details about the accident, injuries sustained, and the amount of damages sought.
• Administrative Process: The federal agency has six months to investigate and decide on your claim. They may accept, reject, or make a settlement offer.
• Negotiation: If the agency makes a settlement offer, you can negotiate the amount. Consult with an experienced Illinois truck crash attorney to ensure you receive fair compensation.
• Federal Court Lawsuit: If your claim is denied or negotiations fail, you can file a lawsuit in federal court within six months of the agency’s final decision.
• State Law: FTCA claims are governed by the law of the state where the accident occurred. In other words, state-specific negligence and damage rules apply.

Call Our Illinois USPS Truck Accident Injury Attorney Today

At SAM LAW OFFICE LLC, our USPS truck accident attorneys are standing by, ready to fight for your rights and your interests. If you were hurt in a collision with a mail truck, you need strong legal representation. Contact us now for a free review of your personal injury claim. We handle USPS mail truck accident claims in Cook County and throughout Northern Illinois.